Torchlight News

 Torchlight news. WAEC Faces Backlash Over Chaotic 2025 Exam Conditions Widespread outrage has erupted over the poor conduct of the 2025 WASSCE English Language exam, with students in many parts of Nigeria forced to write papers late at night using lanterns and phone lights due to delayed delivery of materials. In Taraba, a storm even caused a roof collapse mid-exam. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) condemned the situation, calling it a "national disgrace." Atiku demanded a resit of the affected paper, while NANS decried the 4pm-7pm exam shift as "insensitive" and criticized WAEC's internal security lapses that led to logistical chaos and mental trauma for students. WAEC attributed the delays to efforts to prevent exam malpractice and question paper leaks, citing logistical and security challenges. However, critics rejected this explanation. In response, the House of Representatives Committee on E...

Torchlight news. Rivers State: No Reason Peace Can’t Be Restored with My Boss – Fubara Suspended Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara, has suggested that peace could soon return between him and his political mentor and predecessor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Fubara expressed optimism about reconciliation, saying there’s no reason peace shouldn’t exist between him and his "Oga" — a term he used to refer to Wike. Their relationship deteriorated soon after Fubara assumed office in 2023, leading to political tensions that disrupted key state institutions, including the House of Assembly. As the conflict escalated and posed a security threat, President Bola Tinubu imposed a six-month state of emergency in the state and installed a Sole Administrator to oversee governance. Despite his suspension, Fubara met with President Tinubu and Wike in a bid to resolve their differences. Following the meeting, Wike referred to Fubara as his "son,...

Tinubu: We’re Building the Foundation for a Stable and Prosperous Nigeria President Bola Tinubu marked his second year in office by highlighting the progress of his administration’s reforms, emphasizing that they are laying the groundwork for a stable and prosperous future for Nigerians. Speaking on the anniversary of his inauguration on May 29, 2023, Tinubu reaffirmed that his Renewed Hope Agenda is actively tackling the high cost of living, promoting economic fairness, and making Nigeria a more attractive place for investment. “We are constructing a future that is both stable and inclusive, ensuring that every Nigerian benefits,” he said in a national broadcast. He acknowledged the difficulties citizens have faced during this period but praised their resilience and continued support, calling it essential in addressing the significant problems inherited from previous administrations. Reflecting on his early actions in office, Tinubu said bold decisions had to be made to preve...

 Torchlight news. Real Betis 1-4 Chelsea: Blues Secure European Glory After Maresca's Second-Half Masterclass Chelsea clinched the UEFA Conference League title with a stunning second-half turnaround to beat Real Betis 4-1 in Wroclaw, completing their collection of all three major European trophies. Goals from Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho, and Moises Caicedo capped off a commanding comeback sparked by head coach Enzo Maresca’s timely tactical and personnel adjustments. After a lackluster first half where Betis dominated and took a deserved lead through Abde Ezzalzouli—set up by a no-look pass from Isco—Chelsea looked flat and off-pace. Maresca responded at half-time by bringing on captain Reece James for Malo Gusto and reshaping the team’s attacking approach. Cole Palmer, allowed more freedom after the break, exploited space effectively, especially after Betis lost left-back Ricardo Rodriguez to injury. Palmer delivered two inch-perfect crosses, first for Enzo F...

2027: APC Unbothered by Opposition Alliance – Orji Uzor Kalu Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has stated that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not concerned about the emerging opposition coalition. He emphasized that while the opposition is entitled to challenge the ruling party, the APC remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities. Prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, are reportedly leading efforts to form a united front against the APC. El-Rufai has claimed that the coalition aims to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election. However, Kalu expressed confidence in the APC's direction, noting that the Nigerian public will soon recognize the impact of the party's governance. Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, he said: “We’re not worried. There’s no reason for the APC to be afraid. We are th...

 Torchlight news. PDP to Tinubu: Nation’s Security, Economy Declining Under Your Leadership …Accuses APC of attempting to suppress opposition … NEC to review South-East stance on Anyanwu … PDP governors vow to resist federal pressure Despite numerous challenges, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held its 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting yesterday, where it raised alarms about the deteriorating security situation and worsening economy under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a strongly worded communique issued after the meeting in Abuja, the PDP accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of seeking to silence dissent and transform Nigeria into a one-party state. The NEC also announced that it would address the South-East caucus’s resolution concerning National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu at its next meeting on June 30, 2025. The meeting, delayed several times due to internal issues, was convened to address urgent matters within the party. The...

 Top 10 X trends on the 27th of May, 2025: #ChildrensDay, Hugo Ekitike, #TerStegenout dominate the conversations. On Tuesday 27th May, 2025 so many issues trended on X in Nigeria. Here are the top 10  X trends that Nigerian X users were engaged on. 1. #ChildrensDay This is trending in Nigeria because today is Children's day celebration. 2. #TerStegenOut After an injury plagued season and some poor performances by the Barcelona goalkeeper, some Barcelona fans thinks it is the time for him to leave their club. 3. #FutureLeaders It is trending because some X users are quick to remind Nigerians since today is Children's day that the Children are the future leaders. 4. #AMAs It is trending because some artists were recognised for their outstanding performances during the year. 5. Chelsea Chelsea is trending today after it was reported that they are looking at different strikers in the transfer market and some fans are celebrating the national team call up of their player, Andrew Sa...

 Torchlight news. PDP Condemns Secretariat Sealing, Tinubu Grants Reprieve The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for sealing its national secretariat due to a 28-year backlog in ground rent payments. The party accused the federal government of abusing its power and vowed resistance, even expressing readiness for mass arrests if the harassment continues. Following the uproar, President Bola Tinubu intervened, granting a 14-day grace period for all affected parties, including PDP, to update their property records and clear outstanding dues. PDP: “A Threat to Democracy” In an emergency meeting at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, PDP leaders, including Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, labeled the action a reckless assault on democratic values. Damagum dared authorities to arrest party members, warning that PDP would not tolerate further provocations. He emphasized that the sealing of the secretaria...

  Anti-Tinubu Coalition: Atiku, Obi, Others Seek Unified Platform ABUJA — A coalition of opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, continued talks in Abuja to forge a united front against President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections. Sources indicate a major announcement is expected soon, although consensus has not yet been reached on whether to adopt a new platform or merge with an existing party. Attendees included former governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Donald Duke (Cross River), Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), and Babachir Lawal (former SGF), among others. The PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, and Professor Jerry Gana also participated. Tensions Flare Over Jigawa Representation The meeting, held at Abuja Continental Hotel and organized by the National Political Consultative Group (North), was briefly disrupted when Jigawa State d...

Cracked Mirrors in Benin Part 1: Before the Fall Benin City was humid that October evening, the kind of thick air that clung to skin and stirred strange cravings. The streets hummed with vendors calling out roasted plantain, tailors sewing under flickering bulbs, and gospel songs leaking from roadside speakers. But in a corner of GRA, inside a modest studio apartment dimly lit by warm-toned bulbs, Chekwube was editing a new video. It was another sermon. Another day of reminding the internet to stay holy. At 27, Chekwube was the blueprint of a Christian influencer. Clean-cut, charismatic, and known for videos where he read scriptures with closed eyes and wet lashes. His words reached millions. But behind the screen, he nursed a quiet loneliness — the kind that makes you pause longer on certain profiles, or answer DMs you should ignore. That was how it started. A message. One line. “You preach like you’ve never sinned. I find that... irresistible.” He clicked the profile. Elohor Iduwe . ...

Torchlight news. APC Shifting from Progressive Roots to Monarchical Structure — Salihu Lukman Salihu Lukman, former National Vice Chairman (Northwest) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised concerns that the ruling party is drifting away from its founding ideals of progressivism and embracing a more centralized, authoritarian structure. Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Friday, Lukman criticized the APC for abandoning internal democratic processes in favor of automatic endorsements. Reflecting on his role in the party's formation, he expressed disappointment with its current trajectory. "The APC has transitioned from a party built on progressive values to one that now operates like a monarchy," he said. "As things stand, the APC has ruled out any internal contest in 2027 — the President is adopted, governors are adopted, legislators are adopted." Lukman further argued that none of Nigeria’s political parties function as genu...

Torchlight news. EFCC’s Naira Abuse Crackdown Unfairly Targets Entertainers – Deyemi Okanlawon Actor Deyemi Okanlawon has expressed concern over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)'s recent focus on naira abuse, particularly its impact on entertainers. Speaking on Nollywood On Radio , he acknowledged the importance of respecting the naira as a symbol of national pride, linking the issue to Nigeria’s broader disregard for maintenance and national values. He remarked, “Just because something is cultural doesn’t make it right. As a society, we struggle with maintaining what we build, and this reflects in how we treat our currency. The message is clear: respect the naira, respect the country.” However, Okanlawon criticized the EFCC for disproportionately targeting celebrities for acts like spraying money at events, while more serious cases of corruption often go unpunished. He argued that the agency’s credibility would be stronger if it consistently pursued high-lev...

  FG Files Criminal Charges Against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – Akpabio, Yahaya Bello Listed as Witnesses The Federal Government has formally filed a criminal case against suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, over allegations of defamation targeting Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello. The three-count charge was lodged at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, and is currently before Justice C.N. Oji. The Department of Public Prosecutions filed the suit on behalf of the Attorney-General of the Federation. According to court documents, the Federal Government alleges that Akpoti-Uduaghan made defamatory statements in violation of Section 391 of the Penal Code and punishable under Section 392. These sections criminalize any imputation likely to harm the reputation of another person, with potential penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both. Count One focuses o...

 Torchlight news. Zulum: Some Politicians, Soldiers Acting as Boko Haram Informants Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has raised serious concerns about the infiltration of Boko Haram informants within Nigeria’s political and military ranks. In an interview on News Central’s Breakfast Central on Wednesday, Zulum alleged that certain politicians, members of the armed forces, and community insiders are collaborating with the insurgent group. “We have informants and collaborators within the Nigerian armed forces, within the politicians, and within the communities. What we shall do is to strengthen our intelligence and to deal with them ruthlessly,” he declared. Zulum emphasized the need to end what he called “contractocracy” and depoliticize security matters. According to him, with the right approach, the insurgency could be significantly curtailed in just six months. On the issue of surrendered Boko Haram fighters, the governor acknowledged that while not all have fully refor...

 Torchlight news. Tinubu Not to Blame for Nigeria’s Economic Woes – Governor Umo Eno Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has stated that President Bola Tinubu is not responsible for the economic difficulties currently facing Nigeria. Speaking with State House correspondents on Tuesday after a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Governor Eno emphasized the need for national unity and support for the President in navigating the country through these challenging times. “President Tinubu didn’t create the problem we are in right now. For me, I believe he is doing his best, and he should be supported to finish strong,” Eno said, describing the President’s first two years in office as “wonderful” and focused on tackling inherited challenges. The Governor also highlighted key accomplishments from his own administration in Akwa Ibom, including progress in education, healthcare, road infrastructure, and rural development. He noted that w...

 Top 10 X trends on 19th May, 2025: Lagos, #MondayMotivation, Vatican dominate the conversations. On Monday the 19th May, 2025, several topics trended on X reflecting a mix Sports events, business, political discussions. 1. Lagos Lagos is trending because X users in the city are disclosing the activities happening in the city. 2. #MondayMotivation It is trending because some X users are using it to express their feelings on how the day is going to be as today is the beginning of a new week. 3. Vatican  Vatican is trending after  Pope Leo XIV's first mass where some of the World leaders were invited. 4. Napoli  Napoli is trending in Nigeria after Victor Osimhen won the League with Galatasaray yesterday and some Nigerians were quick to remember that he won the League title with Napoli. 5. Atiku After report from some media outlets that Atiku and Obi have agreed for a coalition, his name started trending. 6. Rome It is trending because of Pope’s first mass since his ele...

  2027: I'm Focused Only on Fighting Hunger and Poverty – Peter Obi Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has clarified that his primary concern is addressing the challenges of hunger, poverty, poor healthcare, and inadequate education in Nigeria—not pursuing political positions or coalitions for the 2027 elections. During a visit to the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kubwa in Abuja on Monday, the former Anambra State governor reiterated that he is not desperate for any political office. “The only coalition I am interested in is the one against hunger, poverty, and the deplorable state of healthcare and education in the country. I am not desperate for any position,” Obi stated. His remarks come amid growing speculation about a potential opposition coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027. Obi, who placed third in the 2023 election behind Tinubu and Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, has often been mentioned as a key figure in such efforts. ...

Labour Party Leadership Crisis: Sacked Factional Leader Julius Abure Seeks Tinubu’s Help Amid Defeat By Torchlight News Published: May 19, 2025 The Labour Party (LP) in Nigeria continues to grapple with a deepening leadership crisis, as sacked factional leader Julius Abure makes a desperate plea for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the party’s internal struggles. On May 12, 2025, Abure’s faction of the National Working Committee (NWC) issued a statement calling for external intervention, a move that has raised questions about their legitimacy and motives, especially following the Supreme Court’s ruling on April 4, 2025, which officially removed Abure as the National Chairman of the LP. Abure’s Defiance Despite Supreme Court Ruling Julius Abure, who has been leading a faction of the Labour Party, appears unwilling to accept the Supreme Court’s verdict that ended his tenure as National Chairman. The apex court, in a unanimous decision, set aside a previous Court of Appeal rul...

Torchlight news. CBN Slashes FG Loans by Over N4tn in Major Balance Sheet Shift          CBN Headquarters, Abuja . The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) significantly reduced its net loans and receivables by N4.145 trillion in 2024, largely due to a sharp cut in its overdraft exposure to the Federal Government and changes across other loan segments. According to its 2024 audited financial statements, net loans and receivables at the bank level fell from N16.122 trillion in 2023 to N11.977 trillion. Group-level figures showed a similar drop from N15.091 trillion to N10.959 trillion, a N4.132 trillion decrease. Major Reduction in Ways and Means Advances The biggest change came from the reduction in Ways and Means advances—short-term overdrafts the CBN provides to the Federal Government. This facility was scaled down from N7.948 trillion in 2023 to N3.268 trillion in 2024, a 58.9% decline (N4.679 trillion). The reduction follows concerns about fiscal discipline an...

 Torchlight news. Access Bank Charged Over Alleged Diversion of N826 Million ICPC Investigation Leads to Federal Charges Against Bank and Employee Access Bank Plc and one of its staff members are facing legal action after the Federal Government filed a four-count charge against them at the Federal High Court. The charges stem from an investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), alleging the diversion of N825.9 million in state funds into a fraudulent account. Filed at the Sokoto Judicial Division, the charges name Abdulmalik Abubakar, a relationship manager at Access Bank’s Sokoto branch, and the bank itself. They are accused of conspiracy, money laundering, and concealment of illicit funds. According to the state counsel, the defendants allegedly created a fictitious “Internal Revenue Service Account” (Account No. 1873016763) through which they received N825.9 million between May 2024 and January 2025. This act, the prosecut...

 From Torchlight news. U-20 AFCON: South Africa Clinch Historic First Title with Victory Over Morocco Kekana’s spectacular second-half goal seals landmark triumph. South Africa captured their first-ever CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations title with a narrow 1-0 win over Morocco in Sunday’s final at Cairo’s June 30 Stadium. The match’s decisive moment came in the 70th minute, when Gomolemo Kekana unleashed a brilliant right-footed shot from distance that curled into the top corner. The goal was confirmed after a VAR review and broke the deadlock in a tightly contested match marked by tactical discipline and solid defense from both sides. The triumph was especially meaningful for South Africa, who had never before won the U-20 AFCON and had not reached the final since 1997, when they lost to Morocco. This time, they reversed that result to become the 12th nation to win the competition. Both teams entered the final unbeaten, each showcasing strong defensive records throughout the tou...

  Wike: I’m Waiting for PDP to Zone Presidency to the South Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed rumors suggesting he might run against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election if the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) decides to zone its presidential ticket to the South. In an interview with BBC News Pidgin on Saturday, Wike reaffirmed his commitment to Tinubu’s administration, stating clearly that he had no plans to contest against the President. “I will not contest. Why would I run against someone I’m working for?” Wike said. Expressing his continued support for Tinubu, the former Rivers State governor noted that there was no formidable opposition strong enough to challenge the President at this time. Commenting on the possibility of PDP zoning the presidency to the South, he said, “Let them zone it first. When we get to the bridge, we will cross it.” Wike also spoke about the ongoing political tension in Rivers State, particularly the rift b...

 Top 10 X (formerly twitter) Trends on 17th May, 2025 in Nigeria: Stockhut app, Hojlund, #CHEMUN dominate the conversations. On Saturday 17th May, 2025, several topics trended on X reflecting a mix of Business, entertainment, Sports events and political discussions.  1. Stockhut App It is an app that allows users convert their gift cards and Crypto to cash. 2. #PondxBlulyt Yhemo Lee @yhemolee_ is asking his followers to reply with #PondxBlulyt if he sends them a dm. 3. Hojlund He is a Man utd striker and he is trending because of his poor performance yesterday against Chelsea. 4 #CHEMUN It is trending becuase Chelsea and Man Utd played match yesterday where Chelsea came out victorious with a 1nil win 5. Lagos The city of Lagos is trending because of the activities that have happened in the last 24 hours in the city. 6. #RaTBmovieInCinemas It is a cinema movie known as RAJI and The BEAST. 7.  #UnveilingTheCabal Handlers are using it to call out the top investors in Dangote...